Famous Argentines

Argentina boasts a rich history and deep cultural life: as a result many Argentines reach international fame. The country claims five Nobel laureates, musical greats like Carlos Gardel and Mercedes Sosa, plus a slew of wonderful artists like Antonio Berni and Xul Solar. A lush literary heritage means seminal works like Martin Fierro made way for great authors like Julio Cortazar and Jorge Luis Borges.

Out of a perpetually tumultuous political landscape emerged notable figures including Juan and Evita Peron, Ernesto “Che” Guevara, and the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo. No list of greats can leave out footballer Diego Maradona, but other famous Argentine athletes include Lionel Messi, Manu Ginobili, and tennis star Juan Manuel del Potro. Even the ball-point pen is (claimed to be!) from Argentina – ask any Argentine and they’ll proudly explain! And if that’s not enough, the Pope himself is Argentine.

Famous Argentines (Historical)

Carlos Gardel is Argentina’s most adored tango singer. The King of Tango’s smooth voice continues to enchant fans 100 years since he began singing. We honor his life, death, and beloved barrio: Abasto!

Follow US writer Pat Gillespie as he tries to hunt down traces of the legendary Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges across the city of Buenos Aires, from San Telmo in the south all the way to Palermo in the north.